Can Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 38 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)

Trigonostigma espei

Ghost Shrimp

Palaemonetes paludosus

🐠Family Group
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Cyprinids
Ghost Shrimp
Invertebrates
Temperament
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Peaceful (1/10)
Ghost Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
23–28°C
Ghost Shrimp
18–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
5.5–7.5
Ghost Shrimp
6.5–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
1–12
Ghost Shrimp
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Freshwater Only
Ghost Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Low
Ghost Shrimp
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
38 L
Ghost Shrimp
19 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
MiddleTop
Ghost Shrimp
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Ghost Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Ghost Shrimp
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp are peaceful species with an aggression score of 1/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

In terms of spatial distribution, Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) prefers the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) zones, whereas Ghost Shrimp occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp together, plan for an aquarium of at least 38 litres with a minimum length of 45 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp.

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp live together?

Yes. Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp need?

A minimum of 38 litres (tank length at least 45 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) or Ghost Shrimp aggressive?

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) is peaceful (1/10) and Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Ghost Shrimp need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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